In the eighth Kurt Austin adventure, a lethal flu virus emerges in China, and the Chinese and American governments join together to search for a vaccine to prevent a global pandemic. Research suggests the sea holds the cure, but when the vital deep sea research laboratory goes missing, NUMA's Special Assignments Team with Kurt Austin and Joe Zavala pursue leads into danger to recover the invaluable resources. Scott Brick adds texture to one of Cussler's deep sea adventures; the timbre and tone of his voice are pleasing—even as he ratchets up the tension to the story's memorable climax. A Putnam hardcover (Reviews, Apr. 20). (June)